Running has been part of my life for many years. It has helped me stay healthy physically and mentally, brought my family together, and taken me on adventures I never imagined. Some of my most meaningful memories have come while putting one foot in front of the other.

My first marathon was in October 2001. That race was more than 26.2 miles—it was a celebration of a new beginning. It marked one year since I had quit smoking, and I ran alongside friends while raising money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Crossing that finish line represented hope, determination, and the belief that positive change is possible.

Over the years, I continued to run, but despite signing up for several marathons, injuries prevented me from returning to the marathon distance. Life had other plans.

Then, in September 2023, I received news that changed everything: I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. What followed was one of the most difficult challenges of my life—surgery, recovery, and chemotherapy. There were days when simply getting through treatment felt like a marathon of its own.

As I recovered, I set a goal for myself. I would run another marathon to celebrate one year of survival and to honor everyone affected by pancreatic cancer. In October 2024, with the support of my family every step of the way, I crossed the finish line of the Marine Corps Marathon.

Now I am taking on an even more meaningful challenge: the New York City Marathon.

For the past 18 years, my family has celebrated Thanksgiving in New York City. Over time, New York has become a second home to us. It is a place filled with family memories, traditions, and milestones. Today, that connection is even stronger because our oldest son now lives there and we wil be running the marathon toghether!

Running the New York City Marathon is about much more than completing another 26.2 miles. It is a celebration of the city that has become such an important part of our lives, a celebration of three years of pancreatic cancer survival, and an opportunity to take the fight against pancreatic cancer to the streets once again.

I am running to honor those who are currently battling this disease, to remember those we have lost, and to support the research that gives patients and families hope for the future. Every mile represents gratitude—for the care I received, for the support of my family and friends, and for the gift of being able to run.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you for supporting this cause. Together, we can help fund research, improve outcomes, and create more survivors. Every donation and every mile brings us one step closer to a future where pancreatic cancer is no longer one of the deadliest cancers.